Authorities claim the officers confiscated $23,700 from legitimate gold sales but only returned $7,800 to the victims. The remaining $15,900 allegedly disappeared into the detectives’ pockets. They also seized Daki’s Toyota Bubble vehicle, purchased with gold mining profits, to preserve evidence.
The scandal deepened when three armed colleagues—Muchingami, Mugabe, and Katazo—stormed Bulawayo Central Police Station on October 24, 2024, wielding service weapons and freeing handcuffed suspects. This incident led to additional obstruction of justice charges (CR 402/10/24).
Prosecutors have condemned the accused officers for what they describe as a “blatant abuse of power” that undermines Zimbabwe’s justice system. The State opposes bail, arguing the defendants demonstrated disregard for the law even while in custody.¹
The trial will determine the fate of the accused detectives. If convicted, they could face severe penalties for their alleged crimes. The case highlights concerns about corruption within Zimbabwe’s law enforcement agencies and the need for accountability.
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